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India.com
03-07-2025
- India.com
From Noise To Nature – 5 Birdwatching Escapes In Chandigarh That'll Steal Your Heart
Chandigarh is known for its modernist architecture, City Beautiful's urban planning, and green landscapes of Punjab and Haryana. The Union Territory has a reputation for being one of the cleanest and orderly cities in India, thanks to the Swiss-French architect Le Corbusier. But beyond urban Chandigarh lies a little known sanctuary for all nature lovers – especially bird watchers. Despite being a metropolitan area, Chandigarh has a number of surprising bird watching locations that are popular among hobbyists and serious ornithologists alike. These regions host numerous bird species and hence beautifully blend nature with a city's peaceful ambiance. This article will discuss some of the most unexpected bird watching places in Chandigarh with features of their ecological importance and the type of bird species, which in fauna lovers need to appraise. 1. Sukhna Wildlife Sanctuary If someone is serious about birds watching in Chandigarh, the Sukhna Wildlife Sanctuary will pop up in the top five locations. This sanctuary is located near the Sukhna Lake and extends over 3 square kilometers, which makes it home to various bird species. Its nurturing environment stems from its dense vegetation made of eucalyptus trees, shrubs, and grasslands that help numerous resident and migratory birds. In the winter season, Sukhna attracts migratory birds like Siberian cranes, northern pintails, and common teals. Indian robins, red-wattled lapwings, and purple sunbirds are some residents' species that can be seen throughout the year. What makes this place astonishing is how effortlessly it blends into the city of Chandigarh. People can take a soothing morning walk while watching these beautiful birds up close. The sanctuary is part of Sukhna-Chandigarh Wetland Complex which was declared a Ramsar site in 2021 for its international value regarding wetland biodiversity conservation. This designation highlights the significance of Sukhna in the migratory life of waterfowls and other sudo aquatic fauna. 2. Zakir Hussain Rose Garden Apart from the striking floral arrangements, the Zakir Hussain Rose Garden is well known for birdwatching. It encompasses 30 acres of botanical space with thousands of rose shrubs as well as native trees and shrubs that serve as food and shelter for birds. Birdwatchers visiting The Rose Garden have claimed to witness a myriad of birds such as Asian koels, Indian mynas, Bulbuls, and even the rare sight of visiting Parakeets. The garden is made even more appealing to birds due to the bodies of water located within, making it an oasis of wildlife in the midst of an urban setting. The biggest differentiating factor for the Rose Garden is ease of access. Unlike distant sanctuaries or woods, this place is quite easy to access and is open throughout the year. People who are interested in bird watching during their leisure time will be satisfied with this place. 3. Sector 26 Park At first glance, Sector 26 Park seems like just another recreational spot, but it is in fact rich in avian diversity. Local residents frequently visit this small but beautiful park for their morning walks, yoga classes, or simple picnics. However, the park is not as renowned as it should be because the flowering plants and mature trees alongside the calm atmosphere allow for a wide variety of birds to make their home here. Common visitors include tailorbirds, sunbirds, and sparrows, while rare visitors include the Pied Kingfisher and Grey Hornbill. The ducks and herons that come to use the park's central pond during certain seasons also add to the beauty of the park. It's biodiversity like that of Sector 26 Park which truly astounds us. Even with the close proximity of human activity, the park manages to sustain rich wildlife. It reminds us that every little green space can serve a purpose regardless of how small it is. 4. Rock Garden Nek Chand's Rock Garden is famous for its amazing sculptures made from waste material, but what people don't know is that it is also a home to many birds. The rocky slopes, waterfalls, and thick vegetation of the garden supports a unique ecosystem filled with various birds. Visitors to the Rock Garden can expect to see and hear the wonderful white throated kingfishers, jungle babblers, and yellow footed green pigeons. The pleasant melodies of the birds as they sing and the soft swoosh of the leaves coming together lends itself to a unique experience. The combination of art and nature that creates the Rock Garden draws attention to the necessity of having green structures in cities. It shows that creative solutions can be found in many difficult situations for the benefit of the environment, humans, and animals. 5. Leisure Valley An elongated stretch of a park that cuts across several sectors in Chandigarh is known as Leisure Valley or the green lung of the city. This combination of gardens, parks, and forests serves as a linkage between various parts of Chandigarh and simultaneously acts as a sanctuary for birds and other wildlife. The valley hosts a stunning variety of birds like Shikra, Black Kite and Egret. In migratory seasons, it serves as a transit stop for birds going from Central Asia to the Indian subcontinent. The variety of open grassland, water bodies and dense thickets ensure that every species of bird is catered for. One of the most remarkable features of Leisure Valley is the fact that it serves as a Hofmann's Nuthatch corridor for urban wildlife. It serves to connect isolated habitats which allows these areas to be recolonized and increases the populations while ensuring sustainable ecological balance over time. Why Chandigarh Is Notable in Birdwatching What makes Chandigarh stand out in birdwatching is the mix of the constant work towards bird conservation, and the uncontrolled undevelopment urbanization. Into the city there are parks, green belts, and ponds that attract birds because they haven't been filled with buildings. Alongside this, the position of Chandigarh on the Central Asian Flyway helps the city become a big stop for birds as it sits right on the most popular route for migrating birds. Because of the local wildlife sanctuaries and the general addition of greenery to the day to day citizen's life shows the balance between nature and city life. Citizens, and visitors from other regions have a chance to enjoy nature in its most beautiful forms, while at the same time staying in the comfort of the city. Chandigarh also stands out for its sustainability initiatives like waste management, tree planting, and biodiversity awareness campaigns, which help foster healthy ecosystems and sustain birdlife. Chandigarh Birdwatching Tips For the best experience birdwatching in Chandigarh, remember these helpful tips. Timing is Important: For best results, early mornings and late afternoons are recommended to maximize bird activity. Bring Binoculars: To witness shy, rare, or distant birds, a good binoculars will definitely come in handy. Stay Silent: Birds can hear noise and see movement so walking slowly while refraining from loud conversations is best. Respect Nature: Avoid throwing litter or provoking birds and their homes. Become Part of the Community: Numerous clubs and organizations offer guided tours and workshops in birdwatching in Chandigarh. Conclusion Chandigarh may not come in mind immediately as a birdwatching hot spot but the variety of sights prove otherwise. Be it Sukhna Wildlife Sanctuary or the famous Rock Garden, each place provides a different experience, all stemming from the city's effort to conserve nature. Chandigarh invites nature lovers and bird watchers to witness its remarkable beauty. So pack your binoculars, set out to these beautiful sites, and experience birdwatching in this stunning city.
India.com
28-06-2025
- General
- India.com
10 Jaw-Dropping Facts That Prove Chandigarh Is India's Coolest Planned City
The capital city of Punjab and Haryana known as Chandigarh unites contemporary design structures with orderly urban development alongside picturesque surroundings. Chandigarh stands out as the 'City Beautiful' because of its neat structure and energetic local atmosphere. Chandigarh contains 10 significant facts which will astonish all visitors. 1. Chandigarh Was Designed by a French Architect Chandigarh stands out because of how it came into existence. When India gained its independence in 1947 the Punjab territory experienced partition creating a new border which separated India and Pakistan and placed Lahore as their capital in Pakistan. When the Indian government initiated the construction of a new national capital it took the decision. Swiss-French architect Le Corbusier became the designer of the city when the government contracted him for his expertise in 1950. Through his architectural and urban planning ideas Chandigarh became a modern symbol that defines both aesthetics and organization. The designs created by Le Corbusier focused on both functionality alongside spacious areas and greenery. The design of Chandigarh features a rectangular system with distinct sections to demonstrate his methods of creating an effective urban community. Major business services operate independently from one another in separate sections that retain educational centers, medical services and shopping opportunities. 2. It Is India's First Planned City India established Chandigarh as its very first organized urban development. From traditional Indian times until its foundation the majority of Indian cities developed spontaneously through centuries of spontaneous growth instead of planned development. Le Corbusier worked with architects Pierre Jeanneret and E. Maxwell Fry and Jane Drew during the complete design of Chandigarh from the beginning. The master plan of Chandigarh has distinct zones that separate residential from industrial from commercial from educational and recreational parts of the city. The considered design structure of the city makes Chandigarh rank as one of the cleanest and most habitable cities in India. 3. The Capitol Complex Is a UNESCO World Heritage Site Chandigarh features one of its most famous architectural achievements through its Capitol Complex situated in Sector 1. Le Corbusier designed the complex which includes three remarkable buildings: the Secretariat alongside the Legislative Assembly as well as the High Court. The structures at these buildings express Le Corbusier's particular design sense through their combination of large geometric structures and exposed concrete materials and creative lighting patterns. The Capitol Complex received UNESCO World Heritage Site status during 2016 because its modernist architecture qualifies it as an outstanding example for the site designation. The landmarks await visitors who want to view their historical significance together with their cultural value. 4. Rock Garden: A Unique Artistic Creation The Rock Garden of Chandigarh exists as a masterpiece that showcases how people can creatively combine creativity with environmental awareness. Artist Nek Chand constructed this magical 40-acre territory by transforming discarded broken tiles and bangles along with crockery and industrial waste into sculptures for his masterpiece. A clandestine secret development initiated during 1957 transitioned into one of India's most popular travel destinations. Thousands of tourists see the Rock Garden each year because they come to view its interconnected stone pathways and whimsical art statues and waterfalls. The concept demonstrates that art and sustainable practices can exist together peaceably. 5. Chandigarh Has a High Quality of Life Chandigarh stands as one of India's leading cities in terms of safety and cleanliness resulting in a superior life quality. Public spaces together with extensive roads and abundant green areas make Chandigarh recognized as a prime exemplary city. The Swachh Survekshan rankings frequently show Chandigarh taking positions at the top for maintaining cleanliness throughout the city. High-quality healthcare facilities together with educational institutions and recreational opportunities make up the advantages of the city. Residents and tourists can enjoy the peaceful landscapes of Sukhna Lake Rose Garden as well as Zakir Hussain Rose Garden for recreation. 6. The City Is Divided Into Sectors The city of Chandigarh follows a grid pattern distribution system that divides its territory into sectors which range from sector 1 to sector 56 while skipping specific numbers. Each 800 by 1,200 meter sector section includes all necessary amenities that residents can access through walking distance. The zoning arrangement works to reduce traffic problems while keeping movement routes simple. Each sector contains its market located at the central point which provides easy accessibility for all people. Both main roads named Madhya Marg and Dakshin Marg have been designed to enable comfortable movement of traffic throughout the city. 7. Chandigarh Hosts One of Asia's Largest Rose Gardens The Zakir Hussain Rose Garden occupies 30 acres space where visitors can find more than 50,000 rose bushes which belong to 1,600 distinct types. The aristocratic establishment dates back to 1967 to become one of Asia's largest rose gardens attracting numerous nature enthusiasts. The month of February transforms the garden through the Rose Festival that brings together colorful flowers and performances along with cultural activities. The celebration of spring through this event welcomes people from different regions across the entire nation. 8. Chandigarh Is Known for Its Green Cover The city receives its name from its 'Garden City' designation because of its extensive green nature. The total land mass of the city comprises about 47% forest area and green zone. Sukhna Wildlife Sanctuary serves as a protected reserve which shelters diverse flora and fauna together with migratory birds while positioned near Sukhna Lake. Natural resource preservation stands as a priority focus area for the municipal leadership in the city. Through its park maintenance and eco-friendly practice promotion along with tree planting initiatives Chandigarh has received recognition as a leading green city in India. 9. Chandigarh Is a Hub for Education and Research Several prestigious educational and research institutions establish their presence in the municipality of Chandigarh. The year 1882 marked the establishment of Panjab University as one of India's oldest educational institutions that continues to secure prestigious positions among national higher education institutions. The Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER) stands out due to its recognized medical facilities whereas the Chandigarh College of Architecture is a prominent educational institution. The educational institutions in this city draw academic bodies from Indian students as well as international students who help maintain intellectual richness. 10. Chandigarh Reflects Cultural Diversity Chandigarh functions as a modern city that accepts multiple cultural elements and various traditional patterns together with multiple culinary styles. The position of Chandigarh as the shared capital of Punjab and Haryana enables it to showcase cultural elements from both states and it welcomes additional cultural influences from the rest of India. The city celebrates its local festivals of Lohri , Baisakhi along with Holi in an energetic and joyous manner. Throughout the year Chandigarh presents multiple cultural events combined with fairs and exhibitions that display its artistic diversity together with its culinary traditions. Final Thoughts A strong example of effective planning coupled with leadership inspiration can be found through the city of Chandigarh. The city began as a well-thought-out urban project and today constitutes a diverse cultural and educational and sustainable center which generates continuous admiration. Chandigarh offers attractions that appeal to those who love architecture as well as nature fans alongside people in search of peaceful living. The harmonious fusion between contemporary elements and cultural heritage has made this city genuinely exclusive. Tourists and residents should willingly protect and explore it.
The Mainichi
28-06-2025
- Science
- The Mainichi
Scientists obtain unstable gold from lead, practical use uncertain
GENEVA (Kyodo) -- A team of scientists including those from Asian countries has successfully transformed lead into gold, though it disappeared in microseconds, with the discovery published in a U.S. physics magazine last month. The team's spokesperson at CERN, a research organization on the Swiss-French border, said that although it was only an experimental finding, it could help advance human knowledge and enable the development of advanced equipment in the future. Four experiments conducted between 2015 and 2018 at CERN, formally known as the European Organization for Nuclear Research, yielded the results. The team, which included scientists from India, South Korea, Japan, China, Indonesia and Thailand, studied what happens when two lead nuclei come very close to each other in a so-called near-miss collision. After the lead nuclei moved at nearly the speed of light, they confirmed that some protons and neutrons were pulled out of the core part of the atoms. During the experiments using the Large Hadron Collider, a particle accelerating machine, lead atoms were observed to lose three of their 82 protons, resulting in atoms of gold with 79 protons. Through such near-miss collisions, the team confirmed the change that produced up to 89,000 gold nuclei per second. The result of the analysis, which involved a total of 167 institutes across the world, was published by Physical Review C of the American Physical Society in May. Marco Van Leeuwen, the research team's spokesperson, said that the gold made in the tests existed only "for a short time, microseconds or even shorter," and weighed a combined 29 picograms. One picogram is a trillionth of one gram. It would take "billions of years to make one gram of gold," he said, but noted that the scientists' work aims to enhance atomic research and may have private sector applications, such as in medical equipment that produces X-ray images. Tatsuya Chujo, a Japanese guest researcher at CERN who participated in the experiments, said, "I was surprised and excited that gold can actually be created from special reactions." "It means that we can basically produce any kinds of elements in the world by this simple and pure reaction using a world class accelerator," said Chujo, a professor at the Institute of Pure and Applied Sciences of the University of Tsukuba.
Straits Times
27-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Straits Times
Don't (Just) Think Like An Architect: Pritzker Prize laureates, immersive events for Archifest
On display at Singapore Archifest 2025 were some 140 models of redesigned sports facilities, created by NUS architecture students in collaboration with SportSG. ST PHOTO: CHONG JUN LIANG Don't (Just) Think Like An Architect: Pritzker Prize laureates, immersive events for Archifest SINGAPORE – Architecture is more than just the built environment. It also responds to the buzz of busker music in a town square, wafts of sizzling satay on an evening breeze, and anything else that conjures up an immersive urban experience for residents and visitors. This is how Mr Rene Tan, festival director of Singapore Archifest 2025, frames the latest iteration of the city-state's largest annual architecture festival. Launched in 2007 by the Singapore Institute of Architects (SIA), the festival fetes the city's vibrant built environment and aims to spark public interest in design. It brings together architects, designers, students and the community through a mix of talks, exhibitions, tours and hands-on activities. But the 2025 edition's programming is different. To mark the Republic's 60th year of independence (SG60), Mr Tan and SIA president Tiah Nan Chyuan are challenging perceptions with the theme, Don't (Just) Think Like An Architect , for the month-long festival that ends on July 25. It is also supported by national design agency DesignSingapore Council (DSG), and features events in collaboration with the Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA). Mr Tan, the festival's 61-year-old creative powerhouse, is excited to deconstruct architecture , which can be esoteric, for the larger public. The 'accidental architect', who wanted to study music decades ago but is now equally at home with a set of building blueprints as he is with a piano score, is emphatic that architecture is less about buildings and more about the communities that built environments serve. Mr Tan, who co-founded RT+Q Architects with fellow architect T.K. Quek in 2003, holds a bachelor's in music and architecture from Yale University in the US, as well as a master's in architecture from Princeton. He has also been an educator at the National University of Singapore (NUS) and the Singapore Institute of Technology and Design (SUTD). The Singapore Archifest 2025 curatorial team includes (front row, from left) Koh Kai Li, festival director Rene Tan, T.K. Quek, Natalie Mok, Koh Sock Mui, (back row, from left) Allan Tongol, Tiw Pek Hong, Ng Yi Loong, Jonathan Quek and George Zong. PHOTO: RT+Q Since 2021, Mr Tan and his team from RT+Q Architects have been involved in a massive project in the field of design education – championing continuing education through global initiatives such as LC150+, the firm's travelling exhibition of the largest known private collection of Le Corbusier models. Swiss-French architect and city planner Le Corbusier, who died in 1965, was one of the earliest advocates of the 'International Style' of architecture, eschewing frills in favour of clean lines and functional spaces. The showcase of 350 architectural models was first exhibited in Singapore and has now been seen in 35 cities, including London, Washington, DC, Prague and Beijing. The 2025 Singapore Archifest conference features talks by sought-after speakers from around the world, such as Pritzker Architecture Prize laureates Riken Yamamoto and Eduardo Souto de Moura, during the first two days of the festival. It is one of the largest gatherings of visionary architects, thought leaders, educators and built environment professionals in Singapore in recent years, notching 99 high-profile industry names. A festival highlight to mark SG60 is a series of 12 Roundtable sessions that bring together more than 60 Singapore architects and designers of all ages, including pioneers such as Mr Tan Cheng Siong, Mr Liu Thai Ker and Mr Tay Kheng Soon. Every architect presents an ' unbuilt work ', usually an experimental, speculative or yet-to-be financed project, at each Roundtable session. This will be moderated by an established name in the design industry to spark dialogue and maintain fun and lively interactions. Visitors looking at a rare collection of unbuilt works by Singaporean architects on display at Singapore Archifest 2025 on June 26. ST PHOTO: CHONG JUN LIANG Thought leaders in a range of disciplines – such as architects Jim Olson, Arne Emerson and Dietmar Eberle, designer Samuel Ross, innovator Dean Chew and award-winning chef-restaurateur Rishi Naleendra – explore how architecture can break out of fixed mindsets to allow everyone a seat at the table. Besides the initial conference and Roundtable which ended on June 27, there is also a range of festival events and fringe activities. Mr Rene Tan says it has been a challenge for his curatorial team at RT+Q Architects to put this year's show together, as the speakers have unremitting professional and travel schedules. 'Over the years, Archifest has aimed at finding a balance in its programming between catering for architecture professionals and for the public,' he says. He leads a team of curators which includes RT+Q Architects' directors Koh Sock Mui, 45, and Jonathan Quek, 45; and associate Koh Kai Li, 41. 'We constantly look for ways to introduce architecture as a shared phenomenon among professionals and the communities at large. After all, architecture is ultimately for the people to enjoy.' SIA president Mr Tiah says the 2025 edition of Archifest is especially important because of SG60. 'Through the festival, we are able to acknowledge the diversity of talent and the different roles architects play in our nation-building journey,' he says. ' Together with URA, we are also bringing Archifest to Katong-Joo Chiat, a URA Key Identity Corridor. Using our city as a canvas, we hope to raise awareness and cultivate a vibrant design culture and consciousness across the wider society.' One of the top speakers at the festival is Japanese architect Yamamoto , who was awarded the prestigious Pritzker Architecture Prize in 2024. He is the ninth Japanese architect to receive the accolade. The 80-year-old's body of work includes architecture that provided both a background and foreground to everyday life, blurring the boundaries between public and private dimensions, increasing opportunities for people to meet spontaneously through carefully thought-out design strategies. Japanese architect Riken Yamamoto was awarded the prestigious Pritzker Architecture Prize in 2024. Credit: Tom Welsh, The Hyatt Foundation PHOTO: TOM WELSH, THE HYATT FOUNDATION Mr Yamamoto notes that in Singapore, people live in communities with a strong sense of local identity, and believes it is important to create a system in which residents can make decisions for themselves. 'I refer to this concept as a 'Local Area Republic',' he tells The Straits Times at the Singapore Archifest Conference at Sands Expo & Convention Centre. 'This idea, I believe, will become a highly effective framework for shaping the future of the nation in Singapore.' He says as both a nation-state and city-state, Singapore's vision of the future should be determined by the people who live in it. 'I believe there is still some way to go to implement this, but there is great potential for success because of close cooperation between the public and private sectors in Singapore,' he adds. 'To build a city is not merely for developers but for the citizens of Singapore. It is essential for all stakeholders – government agencies, developers and the public – to engage in close communication with one another.' Other big-name draws at the opening day conference are Ms Grace La and Mr James Dallman, the US-based award-winning principals behind La Dallman, a global architecture and design practice known for transforming infrastructure and overlooked urban spaces into vibrant public places. Their portfolio spans bridges, civic buildings and innovative adaptive reuse projects in the US, such as the acclaimed Marsupial Bridge and Media Garden in Milwaukee. Ms Grace La and Mr James Dallman founded La Dallman as a collaborative practice and have a wide array of project types, including civic and residential buildings, public spaces, dwellings, installations and furniture. PHOTO: LA DALLMAN Ms La says the duo value all forms of design research – formal, infrastructural, social, historical, tactile, and especially physical and material research – as a prelude to the firm's investigations. This forms the 'raw material' for their designs. 'In the act of documenting and experiencing existing conditions, we gain insight in the found landscape,' she says. The husband-and-wife team are also educators known for an interdisciplinary approach that blends architecture, engineering and landscape design. 'In this sense, we see architecture as growing from the site, as a sculptural, structural and social undertaking, wherein additive and subtractive operations are equally valid.' She adds: 'We achieve balance between these intuitions through collaboration with our clients and consultants – by ensuring very specific, not general, analyses and responses.' The theme of not thinking like an architect resonates with Mr Ambrish Arora, one of the speakers at the festival's two-day opening conference. Questioning conventional wisdom comes naturally to the founding principal of Studio Lotus, an urban design practice he set up in New Delhi in 2002. Mr Ambrish Arora is founding principal of Studio Lotus, a multi-disciplinary design practice founded in New Delhi in 2002. PHOTO: ANKEETA CHAMPATIRAY In engineering college in India, he found the theoretical aspects of formal education limiting. He dropped out of his first year, opting for an exploratory journey that involved working with his hands , from repairing motorcycles to assembling computers . 'I worked for four years at the boat-building workshop that my father, a naval architect, had started after his retirement,' says Mr Arora, 55, who was exposed to 'first-principles thinking' at an early age. First-principles thinking approaches problem-solving and design by breaking down complex issues into their most basic principles, instead of relying on conventional solutions. ' At the workshop, I learnt carpentry, welding, metal-casting, fibreglass moulding and making full-scale drawings on the floor. This experience taught me that everything could be solved through prototyping and collaboration ,' he adds. It helped lay the foundation for his early years of architectural practice, which has been through the lens of 'making' – building in situ, with a frugal mindset and with locally available resources. One of Studio Lotus' earliest commissions was RAAS Jodhpur in 2011 . Set in the centre of the walled city of Jodhpur, Rajasthan , RAAS is a 6,000 sq m property at the base of the Mehrangarh Fort, one of India's best-preserved mediaeval fortresses. The brief was for a luxury boutique hotel with 39 rooms. 'We worked with local Rajasthani stone, traditional building techniques and a deep respect for what was already there , based on first-principles thinking ,' Mr Arora recalls. The resulting design emerged not from any theoretical framework, but from numerous site visits, sketch studies and a hands-on, collaborative approach. Mr Arora adds: 'Not having a formal education in how it's supposed to be done helped me stay curious, forever learning and being committed to excellence, yet being open to failure and ongoing course correction. That is something we hope stays a constant in how we work at Studio Lotus. ' Festival highlights Assembly: Blueprints Of Imagination, July 2 to 13 Inspired by the daily school ritual, Assembly celebrates the act of coming together: intellectually, creatively and critically. It is a first-of-its-kind showcase that unites the works of spatial design schools here – such as the National University of Singapore College of Design and Engineering and the Singapore University of Technology and Design (SUTD) – under one roof at the National Design Centre in Middle Road. The exhibition also spotlights works by Singaporean students studying abroad , adding a global edge to the next wave of design thinking . Each installation in the showcase offers a fresh take, challenging conventions through inventive storytelling, material exploration and critical inquiry. Co-curated by RT+Q Architects, the SIA Young Architects League and acclaimed designer Kelley Cheng, Assembly is designed to spark connections among students, educators, industry professionals and the public. The show builds on SIA's 'Young Architects Meet 2025' platform, a gathering of architectural institutions to promote cross-sharing about design between schools. ArchiPavilions & Installations, from July 12 The Jetty is a lively and dynamic installation by SUTD students with RSP Architects Planners & Engineers. PHOTO: RSP Another highlight is an exhibition that seeks to transform the Katong-Joo Chiat precinct into an al fresco gallery of interactive and inclusive design. ArchiPavilions & Installations showcases semi-permanent structures and creative interventions that are strategically placed throughout the neighbourhood, inviting the public to engage with architecture in light-hearted yet thought-provoking ways. URA collaborates with design schools, local architects and community groups to co-create these installations. For example, Kueh Kueh At Katong features giant, food-inspired pavilions by students from SUTD and SAA Architects. A rendering of Kueh Kueh at Katong designed by former SUTD students in collaboration with SAA Architects. PHOTO: SAA ARCHITECTS Another installation, called The Jetty, is a nostalgic recreation of Marine Parade's fishing heritage, brought to life by SUTD students and designers from RSP Architects Planners & Engineers. Unlike traditional exhibitions, these installations are designed to be touched, explored and experienced. The features are inspired by the rich heritage and multicultural fabric of Katong-Joo Chiat, highlighting the precinct's unique blend of Peranakan shophouses, modern structures and public spaces , serving as a catalyst for conversations on identity, memory and the evolution of Singapore's built environment . ArchiHouse, July 12 to 27 Standing as one of the central platforms at Archifest 2025, ArchiHouse will host a series of talks and conversations featuring both established and emerging voices in architecture, urbanism and design. It is crafted to encourage cross-disciplinary exchange and public engagement , echoing the bold festival theme, Don't (Just) Think Like An Architect . One of the main draws, the Long Island Exhibition, presents visionary studies and proposals by students from NUS' Master of Arts in Urban Design (MAUD) and an NUS design 'studio' called the Landscape Architect Studio. A 'studio' is a creative space where educators and students critique concepts and collaborate hands-on to improve design ideas. The Long Island Exhibition offers a glimpse into the next generation's thinking on coastal resilience, land reclamation and the imaginative re-envisioning of Singapore's future waterfronts. Coastal prototypes by the Center for Climate Adaptation, developed with architects and SUTD students, offer solutions for coastal resilience. ST PHOTO: CHONG JUN LIANG Another highlight is the URA's Identity Corridor Exhibition. The festival's curatorial team worked closely with URA to explore Singapore's urban identity, tracing the evolution of its neighbourhoods, streetscapes and public spaces. T hrough a mix of archival materials, design studies and community narratives, t he show invites visitors to reflect on what makes Singapore's built environment distinctive, and how its identity continues to evolve in response to new social and environmental demands . Fringe events ArchiBake, June 28 A design-themed bake-off challenges architecture firms to turn Singapore's landmarks into cakes. PHOTO: RSP This is a bake-off with a playful design twist . RSP Architects Planners & Engineers in collaboration with SIA and partners have put together a fun fringe event , titled Don't Bake Like An Architect, Bake Like A Baker! At the event, also dubbed 'ArchiBake', architecture firms are challenged to turn Singapore's iconic landmarks into show-stopping cakes, whether it is a building they have designed or one they admire. The final line-up of creations will come together to form a delicious visual map of the Singapore skyline. ArchiTours, July 5 to 13 The 2025 ArchiTours will take visitors through landmarks such as Woodlands Health Campus. PHOTO: SAA ARCHITECTS A perennial highlight of the festival, ArchiTours are led by guides from The Architecture Society at NUS , and offer the public an immersive journey through Singapore's landscape of celebrated landmarks as well as hidden gems. The ticketed walking tours, priced at $65 for adults and $55 for students, feature two projects a day, with a choice of morning or afternoon sessions. There are 16 completed projects in the line-up, such as Punggol Digital District, Woodlands Health Campus and Lentor Health Nursing Home West Coast. Lentor Nursing Home is part of the line-up of sites to be visited during the ArchiTours, a festival highlight which offers the public an immersive journey through Singapore's landscape. PHOTO: CPG The tours invite both professionals and the public to ask questions and look at architecture not as something distant or exclusive, but as a living, evolving part of Singapore's story. A mainstay of the tours is spotlighting neighbourhoods where old and new architecture coexist, such as the 2025 edition's focus on Katong-Joo Chiat , allowing participants to explore the rich narratives and evolving identities of these districts . Beyond The Facade: Secrets Of Katong, June 29, July 6, 13, 19, 20, 26 and Aug 2 and 3 The vibrant Katong neighbourhood is the focus of a curated trail that promises to peel back the layers of the area's history. PHOTO: NG WEE LIANG Singapore's vibrant Katong neighbourhood is set to reveal its long-held secrets through a curated trail titled Behind The Facade: Secrets Of Katong. This exploration will peel back layers of history, showcasing both iconic and overlooked landmarks that tell the story of the distinctive neighbourhood. Participants will journey from a grand colonial-era seaside villa to Singapore's pioneering air-conditioned mall Katong Shopping Centre , discovering quirky niche shops and the nostalgic remnants of a forgotten cinema belt along the way . The trail also highlights the pastel Peranakan terrace houses and uncovers the untold tales of a long-vanished maternal clinic. A stop on the tour is the 'Ghostbuster shop' at Katong Shopping Centre, which features a display of 'cursed artefacts' and videos of paranormal adventures. PHOTO: HIDDEN HERITAGE COLLECTIVE Curated by Hidden Heritage in collaboration with Ng Wee Liang, Behind The Facade is an opportunity to delve into Katong's past and uncover its lesser-known narratives , many of which are hidden in plain sight amid the bustling streets . Tickets are priced at $28. YAL Human Narratives, July 12 This standout event reimagines how people talk about the shaping of Singapore's spaces. Organised by SIA Young Architects League (YAL), this 'human library' experience invites participants to go beyond the architect's perspective and engage directly with a diverse cast of placemakers such as social workers, artists and passionate advocates who each play a vital role in the city's built environment. Instead of borrowing books, members of the public will be encouraged to look up people, with each guest – or 'human book' – sharing personal journeys and the unique ways they influence, activate or nurture urban spaces. Through intimate, small-group conversations, participants can ask questions, hear first-hand stories of challenges and triumphs, and gain a deeper understanding of how social, cultural and community-driven forces shape Singapore's neighbourhoods and public spaces. Resourcity, July 13 and 15 How can urban communities work together to ensure that Singapore thrives amid resource scarcity and unexpected crises? This is the question at the crux of the board game Resourcity, a gamified experience designed to immerse players in the challenges of building and sustaining a resilient city. The game is designed for players aged 10 years and up, making it suitable for families, students and professionals. Hosted at SUTD , it invites the public to step into the shoes of urban planners, community leaders and citizens to craft solutions to urgent real-world problems affecting cities all over the world. Players collaborate to design and manage a city by rotating and replacing tiles, connecting roads, establishing farms and planting crops, all while carefully balancing resource consumption and replenishment. The goal: Survive four major crises without depleting any essential resource type. If the resource pool runs dry, the city and its players lose. To register for the above fringe events at Singapore Archifest 2025, go to Join ST's Telegram channel and get the latest breaking news delivered to you.
The Hindu
18-06-2025
- Business
- The Hindu
Understanding the importance of urban planning!
Urban planning is a multidisciplinary field that guides and directs the development and design of land, infrastructure, and services in cities and regions. Its goals include ensuring economic development, improving residents' quality of life, and managing resources sustainably. This process involves several components, including land use, transportation, housing, public spaces, and environmental considerations. Why is it needed? Urban planning is important for developing sustainable and resilient cities for the future. It contributes to population management, environmental issues, and social equity. Through directing land use, transportation, and infrastructure, urban planning supports environmental sustainability by managing resources responsibly to meet current needs without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs, economic growth by creating opportunities for businesses to thrive, and improved quality of life by enhancing living conditions, including access to jobs, education, healthcare, and recreation. How does India do it? India's rapid urbanisation and population growth necessitate urban planning to manage infrastructure, improve quality of life, and ensure sustainable development. Without it, challenges like traffic congestion, inadequate sanitation, and housing shortages become increasingly difficult to address. A few examples of urban planning in India are: Chandigarh, the first planned city in India, was created soon after India's independence in 1947. Le Corbusier, a celebrated Swiss-French architect, conceived of this groundbreaking endeavour, and the city's layout revolves around well-organised sectors, each serving as a self-sustaining microcosm with a balanced mix of residential, commercial, and recreational spaces. Gujarat's capital, Gandhinagar, was built in the 1960s to take Ahmedabad's place as the state capital. Its architecture successfully blends functionality and beauty. The emphasis on sizable, well-organised sectors with specific functions, like residential, commercial, and educational, sets Gandhinagar's urban planning apart. The city's dedication to environmental sustainability, demonstrated by its numerous green initiatives and emphasis on eco-friendly practices, allows the city to successfully blend urban life with the natural world. Where we go wrong with it Urban planning can go wrong in several ways, including failing to adequately address community needs, from poor transportation systems to neglecting affordable housing options. Such issues can strain the local economy and increase social issues. It can also cause environmental damage due to inefficient land use and inadequate infrastructure. All these can lead to increased traffic congestion, limited accessibility, and a diminished quality of life for residents. To avoid these pitfalls, urban planners should prioritise a holistic approach that considers the social, economic, and environmental needs of the community. The importance! To manage the rapid urbanisation, cities must have the necessary infrastructure and services (water, sanitation, healthcare, etc.) to accommodate the growing population. This is exactly what urban planning ensures. Numerous issues, such as overcrowding, traffic jams, a lack of basic services, and heightened susceptibility to natural disasters, result from neglecting urban planning. Economic losses and environmental deterioration are further consequences of poor planning. Marginalised groups might be disproportionately impacted by the consequences of poor urban planning, which can also worsen already-existing inequalities. Due to a lack of proper infrastructure and emergency response systems, these cities are also more vulnerable to earthquakes, flooding, and other natural disasters. Cities may become even more susceptible to the consequences of rising temperatures, sea levels, and extreme weather events if climate change projections are ignored in urban planning.
